“This isn’t about maintaining seventh spot,” said Wilson. “This is about getting home-ice advantage. And we’re only a couple of wins from establishing that.” That is Ron Wilson as quoted by the National Post. That was on January 9th when the Leafs were in 7th place in the Eastern Conference, four points back of fourth place Flyers.

Things sure were looking great, the Leafs had just won their 3rd straight game the previous Saturday night and were heading into a home-and-home with the Sabres. They won the first at home, but failed to pick up any points Friday in Buffalo. Then they lost two straight against the Rangers and Sens.

By January 17th the Leafs found themselves in 9th place with. So naturally Ron Wilson had something to say about that:

“It had no effect on us the last time (the Leafs dropped out of the playoff picture) . . . we turned right around and won four straight ... That’s the way we’re looking at it. We’ve talked about this. It’s the way it’s going to be for the rest of the year, and get used to it. You’re gonna go up and you’re gonna go down and we have to maintain our emotions and our composure. “–Toronto Star

Given Ron Wilson’s affinity for Will Ferrell quotes I like to imagine he showed this clip to the team.

As I explained yesterday, the Leafs are going to have alternating weeks like this. My only thought is if Wilson’s early comments had any effect on the Leafs’ mind-set going into the weekend. Did they get complacent? Do they believe they have a playoff spot locked up and the second half is a formality, probably not. But it would help us all if Ron Wilson just kept his mouth shut about the playoffs.

Danny once met Doug Gilmour and it changed his life. Had he met Bret Hart the same day he would not have been able to handle it. He can be found on Twitter @ACatNamedFelix.